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HKSTP Elite Global Inno Day Showcasing Impactful Innovations from Future Unicorns

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Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 November 2024 – The Elite Programme of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) aims to nurture both local and international tech ventures with high growth potential. With 24 companies currently active in the programme, including 13 home-grown companies and 11 from overseas, the Elite companies span across different industries, including AI & robotics, life and health tech, e-commerce, and digital marketing. Together, these companies have a combined valuation of US$2.67 billion* with 11 companies now classified as centaurs#. HKSTP hosted the Elite Global Inno Day today, a high-profile event designed to highlight the achievements of the Elite companies and reveal their global expansion plan.

A group photo among Mr Eric Or, Acting Chief Corporate Development Officer of HKSTP (eighth from left) and HKSTP Elite Programme portfolio company representatives.

Launched in 2019, the HKSTP Elite programme has supported a total of 42 companies in expanding beyond Hong Kong, helping them become unicorns and public-listed companies.

Thanks to its strategic location, friendly business environment, competitive tax incentives, worldclass research and development capabilities, and strong intellectual property protection, Hong Kong has been an ideal launchpad for companies aiming for global expansion.

Leveraging these unique strengths, HKSTP has significantly increased its support for Park companies in recent years as they embark on their global expansion journeys. Through the programme, HKSTP provides comprehensive assistance to Elite companies, including first-class infrastructure, funding, business expansion, partnership, research and talent acquisition, all of which propel the success of Elite companies.

Mr Eric Or, Acting Chief Corporate Development Officer​ of HKSTP, said, “As the largest innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem in Hong Kong, HKSTP continues to foster the success of innovation-driven tech ventures through our Elite Programme, helping them thrive, grow, and, ultimately, achieve their global ambitions, generate significant global impact, and attract international talent to Hong Kong. This also reinforces Hong Kong’s status as a global I&T and talent hub.”

The reach of the Elite companies now extends to 16 international markets across 6 continents, fostering international collaboration and pioneering innovations that are reshaping industries and improving lives worldwide.

Moreover, 12 Elite companies are led by multi-national management teams, and all Elite companies have committed to creating over 1,200 job opportunities in Hong Kong during the 3-year programme period.

Over 200 partners and investors joined today’s Elite Global Inno Day. The HKSTP team also highlighted the extensive support available to the portfolio companies. 17 of the Elite companies participated in the Elite Innovation Pitch, presenting their cutting-edge technological innovations and business strategies to corporate partners, potential investors and channel partners.

*Valuation is calculated when the company is admitted to the Elite Programme

#Centaurs — companies that reach US$100 million of annual recurring revenue.

Appendix: 17 HKSTP Elite companies participated in the Elite Innovation Pitch

Company Introduction
1. Asia Top Loyalty Limited The company provides a multi-platform loyalty rewards, redemption, and exchange system targeting the retail industry.
2. b-ONE Ortho (Hong Kong) Limited b-ONE Ortho provides orthopedic solutions using its patented advanced materials, AI, and surgical robotics technology.
4. Buy&Ship Limited Buy&Ship provides international shipping services, delivering value for money through product sourcing and price comparison powered by AI and big data.
4. Cellomics Holdings Limited Cellomics focuses on developing and commercialising liquid biopsy products and services.
5. Fano Labs Limited Fano Labs offers multilingual AI-driven voice to text recognition, trained in various domains such as Reg Tech, customer service and investigations.
6. FJ Dynamics International Limited As a global leader in robotics and automation, FJ Dynamics delivers solutions for industries like agriculture, construction, and landscaping.
7. GetLinks Limited GetLinks offers a recruitment platform, along with Employer of Record (EOR) and Human Resources-as-a-service.
8. Great Bay Bio Limited Backed by self-developed AI algorithms, large data sets and strong computing power, Great Bay Bio provides an intelligent biotechnology platform for bioprocessing and innovative molecular design.
9. HRWork Limited HRWork focuses on EOR, HR-as-a-Service, and Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP) solutions, supporting the overseas expansion of mainland Chinese enterprises.
10. IKAS Industries HK Pte. Ltd. IKAS provides smart manufacturing tools for semi-conductor manufacturing management knowhow, digital representation, and AI-driven prediction / recommendation.
11. Immuno Cure Holding (HK) Limited Immuno Cure provides immunotherapies for cancers, inflammatory and infectious diseases using its patented PD-1-enhanced DNA vaccine and Anti-Δ42PD1 Antibody Immune Blocking technology platforms.
12. Jumppoint Group Limited Jumppoint offers a digital logistic platform that specialises in last-mile delivery and cold chain management, including route optimisation, fleet management, and cold chain warehouse management.
13. KSHER (Hong Kong) CO., LIMITED Ksher enables SMEs in emerging markets to trade, compete and succeed globally.
14. Leapstack International Ltd Leapstack specialises in InsurTech solutions and product initiatives for insurers and reinsurers, leveraging its expertise in insurance operations, risk management, distribution, AI and big data.
15. PressLogic Limited PressLogic offers an Ad-Tech ecosystem combining data, MarTech and content solutions via its own media channel, AI analytic tools, and campaign projects.
16. Radica Systems Limited Radica provides digital marketing automation platforms across omni-channels.
17. RHT Industries Limited RHT provides air purifiers appliances for home use and construction projects.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Panasonic’s Win a Trip to Japan Campaign

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 November 2024 Panasonic announces its latest promotional campaign, a lucky draw with three pairs of Singapore Airlines business class air tickets to Japan up for grabs. The campaign runs from November 15, 2024, to February 9, 2025.

Panasonic’s Win a Trip to Japan Campaign

Upgrade Home Appliances and Win a Trip to Japan

This is an opportune time to upgrade by investing in a new refrigerator, washing machine, or aircon. Purchase Panasonic’s trusted range of appliances, and stand a chance to jet off to Japan in style. Don’t miss this chance to upgrade and potentially win a free trip!

How to Participate in the Lucky Draw

Shop Panasonic: Purchase any Panasonic products or appliances from the official Panasonic store and at retailers. Available in-store at locations islandwide or online.

Eligible Spend: For every $100 spent on Panasonic products during the campaign period (November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025), receive one entry into the lucky draw. Entries are cumulative. Spend more for more chances to win.

Register Purchase: After making a purchase, register for the lucky draw by uploading a copy of the purchase receipt through the official online form. Only entries submitted through the online form will be considered for the lucky draw.

Grand Prize: Three pairs of business class air tickets to Japan

Lucky Draw Date

The Panasonic lucky draw to win a trip to Japan will take place on:

  • Date: 21 February, 2025
  • Time: 02:00 PM
  • Location: Panasonic Customer Care Centre (202 Bedok South Avenue 1, Singapore 469332)


Experience Japan with Panasonic

Panasonic’s Win a Trip to Japan campaign celebrates Japanese craftsmanship and innovation while offering customers a chance to fly to Japan and experience the country firsthand. With this lucky draw, Panasonic aims to introduce more customers to premium Japanese appliances and inspire more people to explore Japan as a premier travel destination.

For more information about Panasonic’s Win a Trip to Japan campaign, including detailed terms and conditions, please visit the official campaign page: https://www.panasonic.com/sg/events-and-promotions/events/win-a-trip-to-japan.html

Hashtag: #Panasonic

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Government and iwi work together on aquaculture

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Source: New Zealand Government

Five new Aquaculture Settlement Areas will help ensure Ngāi Tahu shares in the opportunities aquaculture offers for Southland’s economy, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

“The Aquaculture Settlement Areas (ASAs) I’m announcing today set aside space so the Crown and Ngāi Tahu can assess their potential for aquaculture development. They make up a collective 8787ha and include areas suitable for salmon, mussel, and seaweed farming,” Mr Jones says.

They are offshore from Port Pegasus, Rarotoka South, Rarotoka North, Ruapuke, and Port Adventure.

“The Coalition Government has recognised aquaculture’s enormous potential and made its development a priority. We’ve set an ambitious goal for aquaculture in New Zealand, aiming for it to be a $3 billion industry by 2035.”

Mr Jones says there is demand internationally for New Zealand’s aquaculture products and he is committed to maximising its growth.

“That means cutting away red tape and roadblocks so the industry can better contribute to our export-led recovery and the rebuilding of New Zealand’s economy. Making space for this kind of exploration with Ngāi Tahu today will bring the certainty needed for jobs, opportunities and export dollars tomorrow.”

All current fishing within the ASAs, whether recreational, commercial or customary, will be allowed to continue while this exploration takes place.

“Any space Ngāi Tahu wants to take forward and develop into aquaculture ventures will still be subject to the resource consent process,” Mr Jones says.

ASAs were established in 2004 as part of legislation that delivers iwi 20 percent of new aquaculture space created and forecast.

MIL OSI

TDCX Recognized by Financial Times as one of the Best Employers in Asia-Pacific 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 November 2024 – TDCX, an award-winning digital customer experience (CX) solutions provider for technology and blue-chip companies, has been honored by the Financial Times (FT) as one of the Best Employers in Asia-Pacific (APAC) 2025. This inaugural award, conducted in partnership with Statista, recognizes TDCX’s commitment to creating an exceptional work environment for its employees.

TDCX’s strong workplace practices have received various industry recognition, with more than 550 awards to-date. Some of these include the Great Place To Work® certification and the Employee Experience Award (EXA) from Human Resources Online.

Ms. Angie Tay, Group Chief Operating Officer and EVP, said, “Employee engagement has always been a key thrust in our operations at TDCX. We firmly believe in creating a positive, uplifting and welcoming culture where people feel at home and motivated to do their best every day. This award from the Financial Times award reaffirms our commitment to fostering a deeply engaging employee culture that is characterized by open communication and structured career development pathways. My heartfelt thanks go to all our TDCX colleagues for their trust and support as we continue to drive new breakthroughs for employees.”

TDCX prioritizes employee well-being, professional growth, and career development in its employee value proposition. Some of the range of initiatives offered by TDCX include mentoring sessions, leadership development, and career coaching.

The company’s early investments in technology have also enabled it to create an empowering and productive culture. An example is TDCX’s proprietary, AI-powered FLASH suite. Through the human capital and experience management suite, TDCX has ongoing insights on employee sentiment, enabling it to better understand and address the needs of employees.

These initiatives have contributed to TDCX enjoying high employee engagement levels. The company achieved scores above 75 per cent in its internal employee sentiment survey, known as FLASH Pulse, among its APAC employees over the last two years.

The selection process for the Best Employers in Asia-Pacific 2025 involved surveying company employees who were asked if they would recommend their company to others and to rate it based on various criteria, including salary, talent development, and working conditions. The evaluation process consists of two stages: first, FT readers nominate companies for inclusion, which are then reviewed for eligibility. In the second stage, employees from nominated companies complete an independent survey, rating their own and other companies based on their experiences.

For more information about TDCX’s recognition and to access the full list of Best Employers in Asia-Pacific 2025, please visit Financial Times.

https://www.tdcx.com/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/tdcxgroup
https://twitter.com/tdcxgroup
https://www.facebook.com/tdcxgroup/

Hashtag: #tdcx

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Be wary of fake raffle tickets

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Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Police are warning Aucklanders to be on the lookout for fake raffle ticket sellers, who are falsely claiming to represent local sports clubs.

There have been a handful of these incidents reported in Howick and Pukekohe this month.

Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says the offenders are approaching people on the street and entering businesses.

“The offenders claim to be from local rugby or rugby league clubs, but the raffles they are selling tickets for have already been drawn or are completely fake.

“We have also had a report of an offender entering businesses in the Cockle Bay area selling discounted fuel cards that are expired, and petrol stations won’t accept.”

Inspector Cook says Police urge the community to be vigilant if they are approached about a fundraiser in these circumstances.

“We know our communities get in behind their local sports clubs, so it’s pretty disappointing to see this being exploited,” he says.

“While it’s still only a small number of reports, we need the community to be wary of this scam.”

If you have been approached by someone selling what you believe to be fake raffle tickets or expired fuel cards, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 241113/2281.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

ENDS

Tony Wright/NZ Police
 

MIL OSI

New Zealand Down Syndrome Association National Achievement Awards

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Source: New Zealand Governor General

E kui mā, e koro mā, e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Kia ora tātou katoa.

I’d like to specifically acknowledge: Gwen Matchitt, New Zealand Down Syndrome Association President; Bev Smith, Committee Member; Zandra Vaccarino and Linda te Kaat, National Executive Officers; and Bridget Snedden, Down Syndrome International President and Life Member of the NZDSA.

Tēnā koutou katoa. I am delighted to welcome you all to Government House Wellington for this very special event – honouring recipients of this year’s New Zealand Down Syndrome Association Awards.

I’ve served as Governor-General of Aotearoa New Zealand for three years, and during that time, I’ve been fortunate to meet many extraordinary New Zealanders, pushing the boundaries in their chosen fields – whether the CEOs of world-leading companies, Oscar-winning filmmakers, or Olympic-champion athletes. I am always inspired by their drive to achieve the very pinnacle in whatever they’ve chosen to pursue.

However, I find myself most moved by those people I meet, who not only achieve remarkable things, but who consciously and selflessly give back wherever they can: New Zealanders who use their achievements, talents, and energy to inspire others. I know that today’s audience is filled with such people.

Before this event, I had the great pleasure of reading the citations for each of today’s recipients. I was so impressed, not only by what you’ve each achieved as athletes and in your professional lives, doing what you love – but also for your desire to lift others up through your example, and for your relentlessly positive attitude to whatever obstacles come before you.

It was President Barack Obama who put it so well when he said: ‘If you go out and make good things happen, you will fill the world with hope, and you will fill yourself with hope.’

As part of today’s awards ceremony, we will soon acknowledge the Rapid Relief Team – and I wish to express my thanks, for your commitment and the immense generosity you have demonstrated in your support of the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association and associated regional groups throughout the country.

To the newest members of STRIVE also being acknowledged this afternoon: thank you for being such outstanding ambassadors and advocates, and for ensuring that the voices of those with Down syndrome are heard.

Finally, I wish to acknowledge the National Down Syndrome Association, including staff and volunteers, for your all your work in in supporting and empowering those with Down syndrome and their whānau; promoting awareness of Down syndrome to help foster positive attitudes across our communities; and advocating for the inclusion of people with Down syndrome across all parts of society.

Over these past 43 years, your organisation has had such a positive impact on so many lives – and, on behalf of all New Zealanders, I extend my very sincerest thanks.

The whakataukī says: ‘He taonga rongonui te aroha ki te tangata. Goodwill towards others is a precious treasure.’ As I look out into this room, I see the truth of those words. As Governor-General, I could not be any prouder or more honoured meet you all, and to host and present these awards here today.

Kia ora, kia kaha, huihui tātou katoa.

MIL OSI

Woh Hup Celebrates 88 Years of Bringing Asian Flavours to the World

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Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 November 2024 – Woh Hup, an esteemed name in the world of Asian sauces, proudly marks its 88th anniversary this year. Known for its delicious sauces, concentrated stocks, and instant noodles, Woh Hup has embarked on a remarkable journey fueled by a passion for crafting recipes that have stood the test of time, beloved by both professional chefs and homemakers. Founded in 1936 in Singapore, Woh Hup embarked on a culinary mission fueled by a passion for Asian flavours: to curate a collection of Asia’s most revered sauces and condiments. Their goal is to transform these time-honoured flavours into modern classics, elevating everyday meals in every home.

Woh Hup’s Shiitake Mushroom Vegetarian Oyster Flavoured Sauce: A pantry favourite, packed with savoury mushroom goodness

Leong Chee Kang, Chief Executive Officer, Woh Hup Singapore shared his excitement about this milestone: “Celebrating 88 years is a remarkable achievement for Woh Hup. Our journey from a noodle maker in Chinatown, Singapore has evolved into creating a recognised brand known for oyster sauce and convenient sauces. This transformation is a testament to our dedication, innovation, and passion for delivering the highest quality products. We are proud of our heritage and committed to continuing our legacy of excellence, bringing the classic flavours of Asian cuisine to kitchens around the world.”

A Legacy of Quality and Innovation

Woh Hup initially focused on crafting delectable food sauces that captured the rich and diverse flavours of Asian cuisine. By the 1980s, Woh Hup had established itself as the leading producer of oyster sauce in Singapore, a testament to its dedication and expertise. Today, Woh Hup sauces are enjoyed in over 20 countries across continents, including India, Europe, America, Australia, and the Middle East.

Recognition of Heritage and Excellence

Woh Hup’s legacy was further solidified when its Oyster Sauce and Dried Noodles were featured at the prestigious “50 Made in Singapore Products” exhibition in 2015, organised by the National Heritage Board (NHB). This national showcase celebrated Singapore’s manufacturing achievements in its 50th anniversary year, highlighting Woh Hup’s significant contribution to Singapore’s culinary heritage. Woh Hup was also awarded the Top Influential Brand in Singapore in 2018 and 2023 in the Sauces category. This prestigious accolade underscores the brand’s status as a key player in the market and a trusted name among consumers.

Looking Ahead: Woh Hup innovates while preserving traditions

Woh Hup is dedicated to developing new products that align with emerging market trends and modern consumer demands. Homemakers and professional chefs increasingly prefer healthier yet delicious options and seek easy ingredients that allow them to prepare traditional recipes while simplifying their cooking process.

For instance, Woh Hup non-fried instant noodle is a favourite of many and is a healthier option without compromising on flavour, enabling you to enjoy your favourite noodles guilt-free. Catering to diverse palates, Woh Hup offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly options, including Shiitake Mushroom Vegetarian Oyster Flavoured Sauce, regional-inspired soup stocks, convenient sauces, chilli sauces and cooking ingredients.

Woh Hup maintains an unwavering commitment to quality, strictly adhering to international food safety regulations and standards to ensure all products meet global market requirements. Having already expanded globally, Woh Hup’s widespread acceptance and success demonstrate its ability to enrich lives and satisfy diverse palates worldwide.

Hashtag: #WohHup #HeritageFoods

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Contactless payments launching on public transport in Auckland

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Source: New Zealand Government

The Government and Auckland Council are delivering contactless payments on Auckland’s public transport network later this month which will enable commuters to tag on and off public buses, trains, and ferries travelling across the region, Transport Minister Simeon Brown and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says.

The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Auckland Council have jointly funded the delivery of Auckland Transport’s Open Loop ticketing solution, marking the first of three stages in Auckland’s transition to the Government’s nationwide National Ticketing Solution (NTS).

“From 17 November, there will be more ways to pay on Auckland’s buses, trains and ferries. In addition to HOP cards, Aucklanders and visitors to the city will be able to tag on and off using contactless credit or debit cards as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay on their smartphones or smartwatches,” Minister Brown says. 

“Rolling out contactless debit and credit card payments for public transport users will be a game-changer and will make public transport services more convenient and easier to use, helping to give Aucklanders more transport choices which will help to reduce congestion on our roads.

“These methods are common elsewhere around the world, and it’s time New Zealanders had access to the same standard of service.”

Mayor Wayne Brown says this is another step in making Auckland’s public transport easy-to-use.

“We need to keep removing barriers to people wanting to use our trains, buses and ferries.

“This new payment system means you don’t have to have a registered AT HOP card with a topped-up balance to ride – you can just turn up, tap your credit or debit card and off you go.

“This meets modern expectations and takes away all the hassles that may otherwise have prevented people from using public transport,” Mayor Wayne Brown says.

The rollout of contactless payments on Auckland’s public transport network is the first step in delivering New Zealand’s one National Ticketing Solution.

“Delivering a consistent public transport experience no matter where Kiwis are or what service they are using will drive better value for money and provide more travel choices to New Zealanders in our main cities,” Minister Brown says.

“Local councils and transport operators will be able to monitor demand and roll out the right services, at the right time and frequency, to deliver the most cost-effective services possible. Better data will allow for more efficient provision of public transport services.”

The roll out of contactless payments will expand to Timaru and Christchurch in early 2025, and reach other regions by the end of 2026.

MIL OSI

Police update #10: Hīkoi mō te Tiriti

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

An estimated 10 thousand people have marched through Rotorua today as part of Hīkoi mō te Tiriti.

Due to the size of the group, Fenton Street was blocked temporarily as the hīkoi went through.

It is anticipated that the main hīkoi will travel via Taupō to Hastings today, where participants will stay overnight.

Meanwhile, in Gisborne, a smaller hīkoi of around 80 people left Te Poho-O-Rāwiri Marae this morning heading south, accompanied by several vehicles.

This second group is travelling through Nūhaka and Wairoa, before connecting with the main hīkoi in Hastings this evening.

There have been no issues reported at any of these locations.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Auckland overnight motorway closures 17 – 22 November 2024

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 22 November 2024.

Please note this Traffic Bulletin is updated every Friday.

Daily updated closure information(external link) 

Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.

NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

  • Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 19 & 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 19 & 21 November
    • Tristram Avenue southbound on-ramp, 19 & 21 November
  • Northbound lanes between Tristram Avenue off-ramp and Constellation Drive on-ramp, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Tristram Avenue northbound on-ramp, 17-18 November

CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

  • Hobson Street westbound on-ramp, 20 November
  • Westbound lanes between Stanley Street off-ramp and Great North Road on-ramp, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • SH1 southbound to SH16 westbound link, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Hobson Street westbound on-ramp, 21 November
    • Wellesley Street East westbound on-ramp, 21 November
    • SH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 northbound link, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • SH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 southbound link, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
  • SH1 northbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
  • SH1 northbound to SH16 westbound link, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)

SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

  • Northbound lanes between Ellerslie-Panmure Highway off-ramp and Wellesley Street East on-ramp, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Gillies Avenue northbound on-ramp, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Greenlane northbound on-ramp, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 17-18 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
  • Northbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and Greenlane on-ramp, 19 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Ellerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 19 November
    • South Eastern Highway (SEART) northbound on-ramp, 19 November
    • Mt Wellington Highway northbound on-ramp, 19 November
  • East Tamaki Road northbound on-ramp, 19 November
  • Hill Road southbound off-ramp, 17,19 & 21 November
  • Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 20 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Takanini southbound on-ramp, 20 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
  • Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 19 & 21 November
    • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 19 & 21 November
    • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 19 & 21 November
  • Northbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 20-21 November
    • Papakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 20-21 November
    • Papakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 20-21 November
  • Northbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Takanini on-ramp, 17-19 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Papakura (Diamond) northbound on-ramp, 17-19 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Papakura (Loop) northbound on-ramp, 17-19 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
    • Drury/ SH22 northbound on-ramp, 17-19 November (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)
  • Southbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Bombay on-ramp, 17-21 November
  • Ramarama southbound on-ramp, 17-21 November

NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

  • Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Foster Road, 17 November (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
  • Northbound lanes between Foster Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 17 November (approx. 6:00pm to 6:00am)
  • Southbound lanes between Foster Road and Trigg Road, 18-21 November (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)
  • Northbound lanes between Trigg Road and Foster Road, 18-21 November (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)
  • Southbound lanes between Lincoln Road off-ramp and Great North Road on-ramp, 20 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Lincoln Road southbound on-ramp, 20 November
    • Te Atatu Road (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 20 November
    • Te Atatu Road (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 20 November
    • Rosebank Road southbound on-ramp, 20 November
    • SH16 eastbound to SH20 southbound link, 20 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
  • SH16 westbound to SH20 southbound link, 21 November (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
  • St Lukes Road westbound on-ramp, 21 November
  • Newton Road westbound on-ramp, 21 November

UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

  • Eastbound lanes between Brigham Creek Road off-ramp and Squadron Drive on-ramp, 21 November
    • Brigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 21 November

SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

  • None planned

GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

  • None planned

PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

  • None planned

STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

  • None planned

STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

  • None planned

Tags

MIL OSI

‘Chip’ in for successful sealing on SH1, south of Whangārei to Kaiwaka

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is asking people to ‘chip’ in by planning ahead, being patient and adhering to temporary speed limits, with multiple chip sealing sites planned for State Highway 1 from south of Whangārei to Kaiwaka throughout November.

All work will be carried out at night under stop/go traffic management to minimise disruption for road users. Temporary speed limits and traffic management will remain in place the following day to guide traffic over the new seal and help to embed it successfully.

It’s important to slow down through newly sealed sections of road because small chips can be flicked up from the road surface and damage vehicles – especially windscreens. That’s why we often keep temporary speed limits in place even after it looks like the work has been completed. As well as safety, the temporary speed limit also helps ensure the quality of the reseal. Travelling at the posted temporary speed limit allows for the chips to be embedded into the road surface and for them to remain in place as the seal cures.

Chipsealing helps ensure a smooth, skid-resistant surface, free of potholes and slippery sections to reduce the risk of crashes and help keep everyone traveling on our roads safe. Doing it now ensures the highway is in great condition for journeys over the busy Christmas/New Year holiday period.

Details of specific work sites for the week ahead can be found on the Northland state highway maintenance programme website.

Northland state highway maintenance programme information(external link)

However, work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information, including any changes due to weather. 

Journey Planner(external link)

This work is part of Northland’s significant summer maintenance programme, which will see approximately 210 lane kilometres of state highway renewed across the region by the end of May.

NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance.

MIL OSI

Government launches review to ensure electricity market is fit-for-purpose

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Source: New Zealand Government

The terms of reference for a review of the performance of the electricity market have been released. The review, initiated by the Coalition Government during the power crisis in winter will look at whether current regulations and market design support economic growth and access to reliable and affordable electricity, Energy Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones say.

“New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity relies on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices,” Mr Brown says.

“Businesses must be able to invest and operate with the confidence that they will have internationally competitive energy and electricity prices. Households, schools and hospitals must be able to rely on an efficient and affordable system that won’t let them down when it matters most.”

The review will address areas including investment and access to capital, market rules and competition, and market performance monitoring

“We know that electricity demand is expected to grow significantly as our economy continues to electrify, and we have already made significant progress in enabling investment in the generation, infrastructure, and resources we need to double New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation,” Mr Jones says.

The terms of reference set out how a secure and affordable electricity supply requires markets that:
 

  • Incentivise timely investment in infrastructure and resources to reliably meet current and future demand (by existing market participants and prospective new entrants).
  • Achieve efficient outcomes: considering productive, allocative and dynamic efficiency.
  • Are effectively competitive at wholesale and retail levels, ensuring entry is feasible and placing downward pressure on prices, so export businesses are globally competitive.
  • Have effective regulation in markets where competition is not possible.
  • Are regulated in a predictable and proportionate way, enabling participants and consumers to plan, invest and trade with confidence.

“The terms of reference released today set out how a secure and affordable electricity supply requires markets that incentivise timely investment in infrastructure, achieve efficient outcomes, are effectively competitive, and have effective regulation that enables participants and consumers to plan, invest, and trade with confidence,” Mr Jones says.

Mr Brown says the past winter brought into sharp focus the many challenges in the sector.

“We need to ensure our regulatory settings are effective at ensuring gentailers have the interests of New Zealanders front and centre.”

The review is just one piece of work the Government has underway to improve energy security and keep electricity prices down for Kiwis. 

The Government recently released the first Government Policy Statement on electricity to make clear its role in the electricity market.

“We’ve already taken significant action to further strengthen our national and regional energy security. We look forward to seeing the findings of this electricity market performance review to ensure New Zealand has an electricity sector that works in the long-term interests of consumers,” Mr Brown says.

The review is expected to get under way early in the new year.

MIL OSI